This is a very appealing, comprehensive guide to the minerals of the world aimed primarily at serious amateur geologists. Most of the book is taken up with a mineral by mineral guide that includes sections on crystallograhpy, physical and chemical properties, and identification characters of each mineral with references to where the minerals can be located. The information is condensed but clear and understandable by the non-specialist. It is distinguished by its spectacular photographs of minerals and superb sketches of crystal forms and atomic structrures.